In general, a candidate for pharmacy school must have a strong science background. Most programs require at least two courses each in general and organic chemistry and some courses in general biology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology and physics. These courses set a strong foundation in the biological sciences that is key to success in a pharmacy program. Some courses that are not always required but can be helpful for admissions include biochemistry and cell biology. In most cases, a candidate should expect to obtain at least a 3.0 to a 3.5 GPA in all sciences to be considered for admission.
Most students with a strong science background will also have at least some of the requirements in mathematics that are needed to apply. Most programs require completion of statistics and calculus. This means that the student will have followed a college prep program either in high school or in community college to prepare himself for these requirements. Admission into statistics or calculus also requires several prerequisites, so the course sequence must be completed early in the student's academic career to be able to complete it in time to apply to pharmacy school.
Social science courses such as sociology, psychology, ethics, economics and history are important for a well-rounded candidate. Completion of these courses does vary by program, but most programs do require at least economics to be completed prior to application.
Humanities courses include English composition, literature, religion, communication and philosophy. Most pharmacy school candidates will only need a few of these courses for application requirements. Most important are courses such as English composition, communication and public speaking courses that familiarize students with general writing and public speaking skills needed for a professional career.